Priorities:Iona University Faculty Projects
Contents
Project Name: Community Engagement and Economic Development Studio
Project by Faculty Innovation Fellows Candidate Christoph Winkler
Why is this project important to you, your department, & your Fellows?
The project is an important element of the mission and vision of the Hynes Institute
Description
Iona University identified Partnerships and Community Engagement as one of its key strategic areas. In support of these strategic priorities, the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation has embarked on a series of pilot programs and identified its community incubator space, “GaelVentures” to house these pilot programs (e.g. in spring 2022 Iona students partnered with the Business Council of Westchester and the City of Mount Vernon to engaged in a design project to better help Minority and Women-Owned businesses in the City of Mount Vernon to secure government contracts). These programs are designed to get Iona students actively engaged in design projects that are aimed at creating positive societal and economic impact in our surrounding communities. Building on the initial successes, this project will allow Iona University to develop a novel approach to experiential learning that engages Iona students and faculty in creative problem-solving that positively impact our local communities and businesses.
Stakeholders served
- Iona Students
- Iona Faculty
- Local and Regional Business, Organizations and communities
Key Milestones
- December 2022: Identify key stakeholders (on/off campus)
- March 2023: Develop a prototype for a sustainable model for the design lab
- June 2023: Present the design lab prototype to key stakeholders on campus
- September 2023: Launch faculty fellowship program to prototype program ideas (modified version of Hyens Faculty Fellowship Program)
- December 2023: Implement at least two new programs in the design lab
- March 2024: Present progress/outcomes to key stakeholder
An Innovation Portfolio
Curricula, community partner agreements, fellowship structure and support
Related links
